Fake “For Sale” Scams

Scams that trick buyers into paying for equipment or goods they never receive, using stolen photos, false listings, and mismatched seller information to appear legitimate.

Understanding Fake “For Sale” Scams

What are Fake “For Sale” Scams?

The fake “for sale” scam is on the rise due to today’s ease of doing business online. While great deals can be found from reputable dealers and private party sales, it is crucial to research before sending money to anyone. Remember, the goal for the scammer is to trick their victims into paying for equipment, sight unseen and never deliver the goods.

Red Flags of Fake Dealership Scams

Business names that appear similar to well known, established dealerships.
Underdeveloped websites with broken links.
Contact information on ad does not match Secretary of State website or dealer website information.
Salesperson never answers their phone, rather only calls back.
Reverse image search equipment online to determine if photo is stock or unique. If multiple results return, this could indicate a stock photo is being used and likely fake.
Pricing is too good to be true.
After contacting the dealer, it turns out they don’t have the equipment and are selling on behalf of others and are unable to show the equipment in person or via live stream option.
Pressure to remit payment urgently and possibly through wire, crypto, gift cards or a combination of these.

Red Flags of Fake “For Sale” Scams

Contact information doesn’t match ad description. For ex. Advertisement states location is in Nebraska; however, when inquiring about the equipment, the contact phone number is not a Nebraska area code.
Contact person is never available or doesn’t answer their phone, rather only calls back.
Equipment is not in possession of seller, rather selling for a friend or family member.
Item is being sold well below market price.
Pressure to remit payment urgently and possibly through wire, crypto, gift cards or a combination of these.
Requests to see equipment in person of via live stream are denied.

Regardless if the equipment is from a dealer of private party, never send funds for equipment that hasn’t been observed and/or inspected in person or through a trusted live stream video.